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New York Times
14-07-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
MLB Draft Day 1 takeaways: Bowden on the biggest winners and losers — teams, players, more
ATLANTA — With the first day of the MLB Draft behind us, let's assess what stood out. From teams to players to positions to the venue, here are my biggest winners and losers after the first three rounds on Sunday. The Orioles were the clear winners of Day 1 of the draft just by virtue of having six picks among the first 69 selections, including their first pick at No. 19 and additional picks thanks to their trade with the Rays for reliever Bryan Baker and because they lost Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander in free agency. Besides the 19th pick, they selected at 30, 31, 37, 58 and 69. Advertisement Baltimore, as it's usually done under the leadership of general manager Mike Elias, crushed its selections, taking three consecutive college bats to open the draft: Ike Irish, an outfielder out of Auburn at No. 19; Caden Bodine, arguably the best catcher and framer in the draft, out of Coastal Carolina at No. 30 (Burnes compensation pick); and shortstop Wehiwa Aloy out of Arkansas at No. 31 (Santander compensation pick). Then the Orioles nabbed Slater de Brun, a high-ceiling high school outfielder from Oregon at No. 37 (Barker trade with the Rays) before drafting some pitching, taking lefty Joseph Dzierwa out of Michigan State with pick 58 and righty JT Quinn out of Georgia at No. 69. An impressive haul to say the least. Baltimore has a record $19,144,550 in their bonus pool to try to sign its entire draft class, which should get the job done. Corona High in Southern California became the first high school in history to have two players selected in the top 10 of the MLB Draft: Right-hander Seth Hernandez, considered the best prep starting pitcher in this draft, went to the Pirates at No. 6, and Billy Carlson, the best defensive shortstop, was plucked by the White Sox at No. 10. And Corona High wasn't done, as third baseman Brady Ebel, son of Dodgers third-base coach Dino Ebel, was selected by the Brewers with the 32nd pick. Go Panthers! There were six shortstops taken in the first 10 picks as the Nationals chose Eli Willits at No. 1, the Rockies selected Ethan Holliday at No. 4, the Marlins landed at Aiva Arquette at No. 7, the Blue Jays got a steal with JoJo Parker at No. 8, the Reds took speedster Steele Hall at No. 9, and the White Sox were thrilled to see Billy Carlson, who could be a future Gold Glove Award winner, sitting there at No. 10. Advertisement Overall, a record 14 shortstops were drafted in the first 27 picks. It shows you how loaded this shortstop class was and how much clubs value positional flexibility, as some of these shortstops will have moved to second base, third base or the outfield by the time they reach the major leagues. Considering they had the 15th and 33rd picks, the Red Sox did really well on Day 1. First, they selected right-hander Kyson Witherspoon out of Oklahoma. He has four plus pitches, including a 94-99 mph fastball, a hard downer curveball that's in the low 80s, a mid-80s slider and a cutter. He also has an improving changeup with solid fade. He gets hitters to chase out of the strike zone and has compact arm action with little effort. Next, at No. 33 (acquired from the Brewers in the Quinn Priester trade), they took righty Marcus Phillips, out of Tennessee, who had 98 strikeouts in 83 innings last season as the Volunteers' No. 2 starter. He throws a 96-100 mph fastball, a plus slider and an average changeup. Witherspoon and Phillips should be relatively quick to the majors. And, with the Red Sox strong pitching coach and analytics staff, both have large runways to improve over the next couple of years. Boston finished off its solid first round by taking infielder Henry Godbout out of Virginia at No. 75 and right-hander Anthony Eyanson out of LSU at No. 87. Atlanta was hot and humid as usual with temperatures north of 90 degrees. That's why the venue, Coca-Cola Roxy, was such a winner — because its air conditioner must have been set around 65 degrees, as I was more than comfortable covering the draft in my hoodie. The main room was also the perfect size for the event, both for fans and the media. No players showed up for this year's draft, which, in my opinion, was a missed opportunity for them. It's such a memorable time in a player's career. Many of us remember when Mike Trout was taken 25th overall in 2009 and was at the draft, and we'll remember it when he's being inducted into the Hall of Fame someday. Advertisement Last year, six first-rounders attended the draft at Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas, including the Angels' Christian Moore, the Cardinals' JJ Wetherholt, and Braden Montgomery, who was drafted by the Red Sox and later dealt to the White Sox in the Garrett Crochet trade. The players who attend the drafts get to be on all the major TV and radio shows and are able to build relationships with the media and fans that can significantly help them as they develop into big leaguers. Hopefully, this year is an aberration and some players will be on hand for the draft next year — because not being there is a big loss for them and even a bigger loss to the game. The Angels whiffed on the No. 2 pick when they selected right-hander Tyler Bremner from UC Santa Barbara. Not because he's not a good pitcher; he is, he has three pitches, and should be quick to the big leagues. No, the Angels blew it because of what they left on the table to take Bremner. They could have drafted left-hander Kade Anderson, who just won a national championship with LSU and led Division I in strikeouts with 180 (and left many more strikeouts on the table to get early count outs). They could have had future third baseman and 30-40 home run power hitter Ethan Holliday, who I thought was the best overall player in the draft. Taking Bremner, who was projected to be drafted behind several other college pitchers, was a reach for the Angels, which has been their modus operandi recently, but I think they'll regret it — especially with Anderson pitching in their division with the Mariners and Holliday eventually getting to show off his power 81 games a year at Coors Field. From now on, Bremner will be compared to both of them, and in the long run, I don't think the rear-view mirror will be kind to the Halos. The Dodgers, Yankees and Mets had no picks in the first round because they exceeded the competitive balance tax thresholds last year, which pushed their picks back 10 spots, to 40, 39 and 38, respectively. Those are the rules, and those teams made payroll decisions knowing the consequences. But it's still disappointing to me for the biggest markets in the game not to be in the first round.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Predicting Orioles' next big trade before deadline
The post Predicting Orioles' next big trade before deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints. As MLB's 2025 trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Orioles find themselves at a crossroads few expected just months ago. After back-to-back playoff appearances, the O's were projected to be contenders in the American League East. Instead, a combination of injuries, underperformance, and a grueling schedule has left them buried in the standings, well out of the playoff picture, and forced to confront the reality of becoming sellers at the deadline Advertisement This abrupt shift in trajectory has generated significant buzz throughout the league. Rival executives are watching closely, knowing that Baltimore's roster is loaded with attractive short-term assets. The Orioles, guided by GM Mike Elias, must now balance the disappointment of 2025 with the opportunity to retool for a brighter future. The Orioles' Selling Position Baltimore's struggles have been well-documented. Sitting nine games under .500 and double-digit games behind the division-leading Blue Jays, the Orioles' postseason odds have plummeted below 4%. While Elias has publicly maintained hope for a turnaround, his recent comments signal a pragmatic approach: 'We're still fighting and playing for 2025… but there is a Deadline coming up, and we're going to have to make a strategic decision around that sometime [within the next] month'. The Orioles' roster is uniquely positioned to impact the trade market. Unlike other sellers, Baltimore boasts a collection of expiring contracts and versatile veterans who could immediately upgrade contending teams. The names generating the most interest are first baseman/outfielder Ryan O'Hearn, center fielder Cedric Mullins, and an assortment of veteran pitchers, including Zach Eflin and Charlie Morton. Advertisement Trade Chips: Who's on the Block? Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Ryan O'Hearn is the most coveted bat on the roster. The left-handed slugger is enjoying a career-best season, slashing over .300 with power and on-base skills that make him a fit for any lineup. With free agency looming, O'Hearn's value is at its peak, and the Orioles are motivated to clear a path for top prospect Coby Mayo at first base. Cedric Mullins, a fan favorite and former All-Star, is another likely trade candidate. Though his production has dipped since a red-hot April, Mullins' speed, defense, and postseason experience make him a desirable addition for teams seeking outfield help. Advertisement On the pitching side, veterans Zach Eflin and Charlie Morton offer innings and playoff experience, though inconsistent performances and sizable salaries temper their trade value. The Orioles' willingness to absorb salary in deals could sweeten the pot for contenders, maximizing the return in prospects. The Predicted Trade After surveying the landscape, the most probable blockbuster deal before the deadline is Ryan O'Hearn being traded to the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners, locked in a tight AL West race and desperate for left-handed thump, have been aggressively scouting O'Hearn. Seattle's offense has lagged behind its pitching, and O'Hearn's ability to play first base, corner outfield, and serve as a DH fits perfectly with their needs. Baltimore, meanwhile, is seeking young, controllable talent to supplement its next wave of prospects. The Mariners' system, while not as deep as in years past, still offers intriguing options. Advertisement Projected Trade Proposal Orioles receive: Michael Morales Tyler Locklear Mariners receive: Ryan O'Hearn This package gives the Orioles a speedy high-upside pitching prospect in Morales and a power-hitting infielder in Locklear. For Seattle, O'Hearn immediately lengthens their lineup and provides much-needed left-handed power for the stretch run. For the Orioles, moving O'Hearn accomplishes several objectives. First, it opens first base for Coby Mayo, a top-30 prospect who needs regular at-bats to continue his development. Second, it injects more young talent into the system, aligning with Baltimore's plan to return to contention in 2026 and beyond. With Morales and Locklear provide depth at positions of need. Advertisement For the Mariners, acquiring O'Hearn is a statement of intent. Seattle's pitching staff has kept them afloat, but their offense has struggled to generate runs. O'Hearn's left-handed bat adds balance and power, and his versatility allows the Mariners to mix and match lineups as needed. With the AL West up for grabs, this move could be the difference between a playoff berth and another October at home. The Orioles' decision to sell at the deadline will have ripple effects across the league. Baltimore's expiring contracts are among the most attractive on the market, and their willingness to absorb salary could set the tone for other deals. The front office's ability to maximize returns for O'Hearn, Mullins, and possibly others will shape the franchise's trajectory for years to come. Fans may be disappointed to see familiar faces depart, but the reality is that this deadline represents a chance to reset and build around a talented young core. With Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Holliday anchoring the next era, the Orioles are positioned to reload quickly if they execute these trades wisely. Related: Orioles acquire catcher from Yankees amid Gary Sanchez injury Related: Orioles' Gary Sanchez exits with apparent injury vs. Braves
Washington Post
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Washington Post
Orioles trade reliever Bryan Baker to Rays for 37th pick in draft
BALTIMORE — The Baltimore Orioles traded right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to AL East rival Tampa Bay on Thursday in exchange for the 37th overall pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft, a sign that one of baseball's most disappointing clubs could be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. Orioles GM Mike Elias wouldn't completely commit to that idea. Speaking to reporters before Thursday's split doubleheader against the New York Mets, he cited the 2024 Detroit Tigers, who traded players off their major league roster but held on to ace Tarik Skubal and then surged into a playoff spot. Elias did, however, acknowledge the possibility of selling on a day that began with last-place Baltimore (40-50) sitting 12 1/2 games behind division-leading Toronto and seven out of the final AL wild card spot. 'I think it's a step in that direction,' said Elias three weeks before the July 31 deadline. 'There's no way around that. The timing of the draft, and when you have draft picks involved in the trades, kind of frontloads these decisions, and it's earlier than my comfort level. But we thought it was a really good return and a good trade for everyone. So we did it.' The draft begins Sunday. In a corresponding move, the Orioles selected the contract of catcher David Bañuelos from Triple-A Norfolk. After a dreadful start that brought the May dismissal of manager Brandon Hyde, the Orioles have steadied under interim skipper Tony Mansolino, playing to a 21-14 record since a loss to St. Louis on May 28. Baker was a solid part of that, posting a 3.52 ERA, striking out 49 batters and posting a 1.096 WHIP in 38 1/3 innings as the setup man for closer Felix Bautista. 'This is a team that is moving in the right direction, and we still have a lot of time left before the deadline, but this was a trade with the draft coming up in a couple days that we had to make a decision on,' Elias said. 'We didn't want to pass up on the opportunity. Hopefully, we can use the pick wisely, bring a lot of value back, and Bryan's going to a good place.' Mansolino is also hoping his team will get replenishments in the form of players eventually returning from the injured list. That sizable group includes several possible starting pitchers: Grayson Rodriguez (shoulder), Albert Suarez (shoulder), Tyler Wells (elbow) and Kyle Bradish (Tommy John surgery). Meanwhile, Baltimore will now have four of the first 37 and seven of the first 93 draft picks. 'All the drafts are important, but when you have this amount of picks, it becomes more important, there's no question about it,' Elias said. 'There's just a much bigger opportunity ahead of us, and the draft is a lifeblood for our franchise.' ___ AP MLB:
Al Arabiya
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Al Arabiya
Orioles trade reliever Bryan Baker to Rays for 37th pick in draft
The Baltimore Orioles traded right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to AL East rival Tampa Bay on Thursday in exchange for the 37th overall pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft – a sign that one of baseball's most disappointing clubs could be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. Orioles GM Mike Elias wouldn't completely commit to that idea. Speaking to reporters before Thursday's split doubleheader against the New York Mets, he cited the 2024 Detroit Tigers, who traded players off their major league roster but held on to ace Tarik Skubal and then surged into a playoff spot. Elias did, however, acknowledge the possibility of selling on a day that began with last-place Baltimore (40-50) sitting 12 1/2 games behind division-leading Toronto and seven out of the final AL wild card spot. 'I think it's a step in that direction,' said Elias three weeks before the July 31 deadline. 'There's no way around that. The timing of the draft and when you have draft picks involved in the trades kind of frontloads these decisions, and it's earlier than my comfort level. But we thought it was a really good return and a good trade for everyone. So we did it.' The draft begins Sunday. In a corresponding move, the Orioles selected the contract of catcher David Bañuelos from Triple-A Norfolk. After a dreadful start that brought the May dismissal of manager Brandon Hyde, the Orioles have steadied under interim skipper Tony Mansolino, playing to a 21-14 record since a loss to St. Louis on May 28. Baker was a solid part of that, posting a 3.52 ERA, striking out 49 batters, and posting a 1.096 WHIP in 38 1/3 innings as the setup man for closer Felix Bautista. 'This is a team that is moving in the right direction, and we still have a lot of time left before the deadline, but this was a trade with the draft coming up in a couple days that we had to make a decision on,' Elias said. 'We didn't want to pass up on the opportunity. Hopefully we can use the pick wisely, bring a lot of value back, and Bryan's going to a good place.' Mansolino is also hoping his team will get replenishments in the form of players eventually returning from the injured list. That sizable group includes several possible starting pitchers: Grayson Rodriguez (shoulder), Albert Suarez (shoulder), Tyler Wells (elbow), and Kyle Bradish (Tommy John surgery). Meanwhile, Baltimore will now have four of the first 37 and seven of the first 93 draft picks. 'All the drafts are important, but when you have this amount of picks, it becomes more important, there's no question about it,' Elias said. 'There's just a much bigger opportunity ahead of us, and the draft is a lifeblood for our franchise.'
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Orioles trade reliever Bryan Baker to Rays for 37th pick in draft
Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Bryan Baker (43) leaves the mound in a pitching substitution after giving up four runs during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough) BALTIMORE (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles traded right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to AL East rival Tampa Bay on Thursday in exchange for the 37th overall pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft, a sign that one of baseball's most disappointing clubs could be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. Orioles GM Mike Elias wouldn't completely commit to that idea. Speaking to reporters before Thursday's split doubleheader against the New York Mets, he cited the 2024 Detroit Tigers, who traded players off their major league roster but held on to ace Tarik Skubal and then surged into a playoff spot. Advertisement Elias did, however, acknowledge the possibility of selling on a day that began with last-place Baltimore (40-50) sitting 12 1/2 games behind division-leading Toronto and seven out of the final AL wild card spot. 'I think it's a step in that direction,' said Elias three weeks before the July 31 deadline. 'There's no way around that. The timing of the draft, and when you have draft picks involved in the trades, kind of frontloads these decisions, and it's earlier than my comfort level. But we thought it was a really good return and a good trade for everyone. So we did it.' The draft begins Sunday. In a corresponding move, the Orioles selected the contract of catcher David Bañuelos from Triple-A Norfolk. After a dreadful start that brought the May dismissal of manager Brandon Hyde, the Orioles have steadied under interim skipper Tony Mansolino, playing to a 21-14 record since a loss to St. Louis on May 28. Advertisement Baker was a solid part of that, posting a 3.52 ERA, striking out 49 batters and posting a 1.096 WHIP in 38 1/3 innings as the setup man for closer Felix Bautista. 'This is a team that is moving in the right direction, and we still have a lot of time left before the deadline, but this was a trade with the draft coming up in a couple days that we had to make a decision on,' Elias said. 'We didn't want to pass up on the opportunity. Hopefully, we can use the pick wisely, bring a lot of value back, and Bryan's going to a good place.' Mansolino is also hoping his team will get replenishments in the form of players eventually returning from the injured list. That sizable group includes several possible starting pitchers: Grayson Rodriguez (shoulder), Albert Suarez (shoulder), Tyler Wells (elbow) and Kyle Bradish (Tommy John surgery). Meanwhile, Baltimore will now have four of the first 37 and seven of the first 93 draft picks. Advertisement 'All the drafts are important, but when you have this amount of picks, it becomes more important, there's no question about it,' Elias said. 'There's just a much bigger opportunity ahead of us, and the draft is a lifeblood for our franchise.' ___ AP MLB:
